| Format | Graphics Interchange Format (GIF) |
| Extension | .gif |
| MIME Type | image/gif |
| Introduction | CompuServe introduced GIF in 1987. |
| Compression | Lossless compression using LZW (Lempel-Ziv-Welch). |
| Color Depth | Supports 1 to 8 bits per pixel (1 to 256 colors). |
| Transparency | Supports transparent pixels (single color transparency). Can create animations with a transparent |
| Animation | Multiple images in a single file, creating animations. Supports frame delays. |
| Interlacing | Optional interlacing for progressive rendering. |
| Metadata | Supports comments and textual information. |
| Application | Commonly used for simple animations, logos, and icons. Often used on the web. |
| Compression Ratio | Effective for images with large areas of solid color or repeating patterns. |
| Drawbacks | Limited color palette compared to other formats. Larger file sizes for complex images. LZW |
| Usage Restrictions | Patented compression algorithm (expired in 2003), but still used widely. |
| Alternatives | PNG (lossless, better color support), JPEG (lossy, better for photographs). |
| Animation Example | Short looping animations, simple banners, memes. |